The Earth Science Picture of the Day (EPOD) highlights the diverse processes and phenomena which shape our planet and our lives. EPOD will collect and archive photos, imagery, graphics, and artwork with short explanatory captions and links exemplifying features within the Earth system. The community is invited to contribute digital imagery, short captions and relevant links.

The Montana Moose Fire

Heat signatures (red) and smoke (light blue haze) are visible from fires burning in Montana. The Moose fire, started by lightning in mid-August, has burned 52,000 acres in Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park 13 miles north of Whitefish and was only 5% contained as of September 4. A total of 1,112 personnel are assigned to the fire. The Bergsicker WRU Complex fire has burned 3,300 acres in Flathead national Forest 29 miles east of bigfork and was 0% contained as of Sep 4. Total fire losses nationwide for 2001 lag behind the 10 year average, and to date are less than half of the losses suffered during the near record-breaking 2000 fire season.